Olanzapine

Antipsychotic
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Olanzapine is a antipsychotic found in 9 medicines sold in India, such as Oleanz 5, Oleanz 10, Oleanz RT 5. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Treats schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

How it works

An atypical antipsychotic for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

How to take it

Usually 5 to 20 mg once a day.

Common side effects

  • Drowsiness
  • Weight gain
  • Dizziness
  • Raised sugar and cholesterol

Get medical help straight away if

  • High fever with stiff muscles and confusion
  • Uncontrolled movements
  • Fainting or palpitations

Be careful

Causes drowsiness and weight gain; sugar and cholesterol checks are needed.

Other medicines and interactions

More drowsiness with alcohol and sedatives. Heart rhythm risk with other QT-prolonging medicines. Smoking changes olanzapine levels.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Often continued in pregnancy when needed, under specialist care. Ask about breastfeeding.

Brands of Olanzapine (9)

Olancare 5 MDOlanex 5Oleanz 10Oleanz 5Oleanz RT 5Olimelt 5Oliza 5Ozapin MD 5Tolaz DT 5

Common questions

What is Olanzapine used for?

Treats schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

How does Olanzapine work?

An atypical antipsychotic for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

How should I take Olanzapine?

Usually 5 to 20 mg once a day.

What are the side effects of Olanzapine?

Common: Drowsiness, weight gain, dizziness, raised sugar and cholesterol. Get help straight away for: High fever with stiff muscles and confusion, uncontrolled movements, fainting or palpitations.

Does Olanzapine interact with other medicines?

More drowsiness with alcohol and sedatives. Heart rhythm risk with other QT-prolonging medicines. Smoking changes olanzapine levels.

Is Olanzapine safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Often continued in pregnancy when needed, under specialist care. Ask about breastfeeding.

Does Olanzapine need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Which brands contain Olanzapine?

Olancare 5 MD, Olanex 5, Oleanz 10, Oleanz 5, Oleanz RT 5, Olimelt 5, Oliza 5, Ozapin MD 5, Tolaz DT 5.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

🔎 Search another medicine

For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.